At Horse of the Year Show last year, we welcomed over 60,000 visitors through the door throughout the week of the show to celebrate our 70th Anniversary with us. We had some great highlights from the week; the youngest ever rider winning the Senior Foxhunter, the first combination in 51 years to win the Leading Pony Showjumper of the Year twice in a row and a Ladies Side Saddle combination taking the ultimate Supreme Horse of the Year Championship . Charlotte Dujardin rode to victory once again, taking her third consecutive Dressage Future Elite Champion title riding Florentina VI and Saturday evening’s Puissance class created and unforgettable atmosphere in the Andrews Bowen International Arena, seeing two exceptional riders take a joint win. The Sunday evening Finale was a perfect way to round off the week with the displays accompanying all of the champions into the arena, followed by the stunning Hook Norton Brewery Shires with Martin Clunes on board for the iconic reading of the Ode to the Horse. What a way to celebrate 70 years! Here’s what you had to say about it:
Suzanne King – 5 star
“HOYS is the highlight of my year – my Glastonbury! There is something for everyone to enjoy. The atmosphere is electric and the displays are superb. The trade stands are fantastic and everyone is really happy. I am already looking forward to visiting again next year! Well done on an exceptional show! From a mature lady, who’s still a little girl at heart.”
Sally Elizabeth Harris – 5 star
“It was our first time at HOYS this year and we loved it! We will definitely be going back again.”
Dave Manning – 5 star
“We had a fantastic day and it was an awesome show; full credit to the organisers, riders and their teams. It’s a perfect family outing.”
Pat Lambert— 5 star
“I have been going to HOYS on Saturday nights with my son for the last 10 years and always have had an exciting experience. The atmosphere is always electric and the displays in the arena are spectacular.”
Louise Sheridan— 5 star
“HOYS is such a fabulous show – my favourite of the year! I can’t wait to come back.”
Carrie Winnall – 5 star
“It was our first visit to HOYS for my daughter and I. She has now written about it under ‘The happiest time in my life’ heading for school homework. It is exhilarating and the Puissance is simply outstanding.”
Cheryl Elliot – 5 star
“We had the best day ever on Thursday at HOYS. It was my first time visiting and it didn’t disappoint. Shopping was amazing and getting to see Carl Hester was fantastic.”
Justina Newman – 5 star
“HOYS is a fantastic family day out, it just seems to get better every year. It has the most tremendous atmosphere and if you go once … you’ll definitely go back!!”
Anne Davies— 5 star
“This was the first time we had been to HOYS, although always wanted to attend. It was a fantastic evening and we enjoyed every moment.”
Julie Goldie – 5 star
“This was my 12th year attending HOYS and it never disappoints, it just gets better and better! The show opening this year with the live drummer and the greatest showman theme tune is 100% the best opening yet! It sent shivers down my spine. Huge thanks to the organisers.”
Alison Parsons – 5 star
“Have competed at HOYS for a few years and fulfilled childhood dreams of being a HOYS Champion in 2016 – what a day that was. This year was also perfect spending 15 hours at the show on Friday, I was really sorry to have to go home at 11 o’clock at night.”
Amelia Florence Mosey – 5 star
“I had an amazing first time at HOYS! Last night was incredible, I had a fabulous time and cannot wait for next year!”
Alison Dalby – 5 star
“I’ve been attending HOYS on and off since 1977 it’s always a privilege to be part of the greatest ever celebration of the horse. So glad I stayed to watch the finale on Sunday evening. It was just great and the organisers and NEC staff are so welcoming.”
Dale Woodcock – 5 star
“Had a brilliant day at HOYS yesterday; great atmosphere, great performances and great shopping. Roll on next year!”
Charlotte Tranter — 5 star
“I hadn’t been to HOYS since 2008, but 2018 didn’t disappoint. I had an absolutely amazing day/night! Thank you to all the organisers, stalls, riders and horses for all your hard work!”
Join us this year back the The NEC Birmingham Resorts World Arena from the 2nd – 6th October. Buy your tickets here: https://www.theticketfactory.com/hoys/online/
